Extra troops brought in for Olympics

THE British government will deploy extra troops to provide security at London Olympic venues after the company with the contract to protect the Games said it would not have enough staff available.

''This issue came up around a fortnight ago,'' Home Office minister James Brokenshire told the BBC yesterday.

He said that up to this point, the company G4S - the world's largest security company - ''have been very robust about the fact that they would deliver on their contract.".

British media reported that an extra 3500 military personnel may be needed, just two weeks before the London Games open on July 27, adding to concerns that the event may not run smoothly.

Though London has got its venues ready well in advance and spending came in below the final budget estimate, immigration delays at Heathrow Airport and last-minute repairs to the hub's main road link are threatening transport arrangements.